A Complete Travel Guide to Kimolos, Greece
Until a few years ago, Kimolos wasn’t even on my radar, but recently it has gained attention on Instagram thanks to photogenic spots like Chroma Cove Suites and its charming main village. If you’re not yet familiar with it, Kimolos is a small island found in the southwestern Cyclades that has quietly resisted mass tourism, making it ideal for travelers seeking a slower, more authentic pace of life. Once part of Milos before being separated by volcanic activity, it’s now a popular day trip from its larger neighbor, though those who stay quickly discover its deeper charm. With a permanent population of around 900 residents, most living in the main village of Chorio, Kimolos offers a warm, close-knit atmosphere where friendly locals, traditional tavernas, and unspoiled beaches define daily life. There are no large resorts or endless dining options here, just simple pleasures, raw beauty, and a sense of calm that invites you to truly unwind. Without further ado, let’s dive into the complete Kimolos travel guide!
How to Get to Kimolos, Greece
The best way to reach Kimolos is by ferry from Athens, as the island has no airport and is served by a single port, Psathi. Ferries to Kimolos operate year-round from the port of Piraeus, while seasonal routes from the port of Lavrio run during the summer months. Travel time from Athens to Kimolos ranges from approximately 6 to 14.5 hours, depending on the ferry type and route. Kimolos is also easily reached by ferry from Milos, which offers more frequent connections, including high-speed boats and routes to other Cycladic islands such as Folegandros and Santorini. If you prefer to limit sea travel, you can fly to Milos Airport and continue to Kimolos by a short ferry ride.
Book a ferry
Getting Around Kimolos
Kimolos is home to two main villages: Chorio and Psathi, where the island’s port is located. Scattered across the island are smaller settlements such as Goupa Kara, Prassa, Aliki, Bonatsa, and Dekas, each adding to Kimolos’ quiet, traditional charm. The distances on the island are also quite short, with the distance from the port to Chorio being just under 5 minutes. The best way to get around the island is by renting a car, which gives you the freedom to explore beyond the main routes and travel at your own pace. Alternatively, a small local bus operates on the island, connecting most beaches and easily accessible areas.
Rent a Car
How Long to Stay in Kimolos
Kimolos is best enjoyed slowly, allowing time to settle into the island’s relaxed rhythm. While it’s possible to visit on a day trip from Milos, staying at least 2–3 nights lets you explore the beaches, walk the trails, and experience village life without rushing. With more time, such as 4-5 nights, you’ll appreciate the quiet evenings, local tavernas, and the feeling of having some of the island’s most beautiful spots almost to yourself.
Where to Stay in Kimolos
Kimolos is a small island with a limited number of villages and accommodation options, adding to its quiet, authentic charm. You won’t find large resorts or all-inclusive complexes here; instead, most stays are family-owned, ranging from boutique hotels and boat houses to simple, well-kept homes. The majority of accommodations are located in or near Chorio, with a few additional options by beaches such as Prassa and Psathi. Since distances between villages and beaches are short, your base in Kimolos matters less than choosing an accommodation that feels comfortable and suits your travel style and needs.
Psathaki: Located between Psathi and Chorio, Psathaki is perfect for couples looking for a quiet boutique hotel with Cycladic charm and beautiful views all around.
Espera Suites: The only 5-star hotel on the island, Espera Suites offers a serene, design-led stay defined by privacy, authentic island hospitality, and a deep connection to the island’s natural beauty.
Kimolia Gi: Found just a 9-minute walk away from Prassa Beach, Kimolia Gi consists of seven Cycladic studios and houses. Their on-site restaurant, Kuzinaki serves homemade breakfast and meals every day.
Thavma Kimolos: Thavma Beach is located directly on Karas Beach and is ideal for travelers seeking complete privacy, direct access to the sea, and the soothing experience of falling asleep to the sound of the waves.
ANEMOLETHE: ANEMOLETHE is an elegant retreat in Kimolos offering stylish sea-view suites with an infinity pool, private balconies or pools, breakfast, and a prime location near Psathi.
Kimolos Houses: Kimolos Houses is a two-bedroom home ideal for families, featuring a fully equipped kitchen, sweeping sea views, and an easy walking distance to the village of Chorio.
Apanemo Beach House: Apanemo Beach House is a beautifully restored former sirma, offering direct access to Agios Nikolaos Beach, uninterrupted sea views, and a serene stay that blends traditional Kimolian architecture with modern comforts.
Kambos House: Kambos House is a historic home in the heart of Kimolos’ main village, offering traditional charm, modern comforts, and scenic views of the village while being steps away from shops, restaurants, and nightlife.
Afroessa Cave Kimolos: This handcrafted 90 sqm cave in the heart of Psathi offers a unique and cozy stay with tasteful interiors, soft lighting, just steps from cafes, restaurants, and local shops.
Explore More Hotels in Kimolos
Things To Do in Kimolos
Wander through Chorio
Exploring Chorio, the heart of Kimolos, is a must for any visitor. Its narrow streets and whitewashed houses create a picture-perfect setting that invites you to slow down and wander. Stroll through its charming alleys and intimate squares, such as School Square, an ideal spot for watching the full moon in August. Traditional cafés, lively bars, local eateries, and souvenir shops ensure there’s always something to enjoy, no matter the time of day. From Chorio, you can also set out to explore the island’s medieval castle, follow a scenic hiking trail, or visit Kimolos’ two museums.
Go to an Outdoor Cinema
Every summer from June to September, the volunteer group Kimolistes organizes open-air cinema across Kimolos a couple of times a week, offering screenings for both residents and visitors. What makes it unique is that the viewing locations change, from beaches like Aliki, Mavrospilia, and Bonatsa to village squares and even the Medieval Castle, highlighting the island’s stunning landscapes. With lanterns, torches, and the scents of the island in the air, watching films under the clear Greek sky becomes a magical and unforgettable experience. You can check the weekly movie schedule on their official Facebook page.
Tour the Island by Boat
Kimolos boasts some of the most striking beaches in Greece, with crystal-clear waters and soft golden sand, many of which are only accessible by footpaths or by sea. Renting a boat for a day is one of the best ways to explore the island, allowing you to move at your own pace and drop anchor at secluded coves. From the sea caves of Gerakia to the warm, therapeutic waters of Agioklima Beach, the coastline is full of hidden beaches. Boat rentals and cruises are easily arranged at Psathi Port, where companies like Polaris and Kimolos Node offer boats for rent and private tours, while Bay Cruises run shared and private island cruises.
Visit Polyaigos
Just a short boat ride from Kimolos, Polyaigos is the largest uninhabited island in the Aegean and a true natural sanctuary, reached either by renting a boat or going on a cruise by one of the previously mentioned companies in Psathi. Known for its untouched landscapes, rare flora and fauna, and striking beaches like Galazia Nera and Mersini, it feels wonderfully remote and unspoiled. Visiting Polyaigos offers a chance to swim in stunning turquoise waters, explore secluded bays, and experience a level of tranquility that’s becoming increasingly rare in the Cyclades.
Go on a Day Trip to Milos
A day trip from Kimolos to Milos is easy and convenient, with frequent ferry connections throughout the day between Psathi Port and Pollonia Port. Tickets are typically purchased directly at the port ticket offices in Psathi or Pollonia, as reservations are not required. Basing your trip in Kimolos and visiting Milos for the day allows you to experience Milos’ famous beaches and fishing villages, while returning in the evening to the calm, unhurried atmosphere of Kimolos.
Explore the Castle of Kimolos
The Castle of Kimolos, also known as Kastro, lies at the heart of Chorio and dates back to between the 14th and 16th centuries. Built from local stone, its tightly knit houses once formed the island’s main defensive structure, with outer walls doubling as fortifications. Today, visitors can wander through narrow lanes, pass through the Upper and Lower Gates, and sense the layered history shaped by pirate attacks and later restorations. The surrounding village gradually grew beyond the castle walls, making this area the oldest and most atmospheric part of Kimolos.
Explore the Hiking Trails
Hiking in Kimolos is a fantastic way to experience the island’s rugged beauty, with a network of well‑waymarked trails radiating from the picturesque village of Chorio through olive groves, dry‑stone terraces, and along ancient paths used by locals for centuries. One of the most popular hikes leads to Skiadi, a dramatic mushroom‑shaped geological monument registered in the Aegean Geological Monument Atlas, offering sweeping views of the coast and neighboring Milos after about a 30–35 minute walk from the trailhead near Chorio. Beyond Skiadi, several routes of varying lengths and difficulties connect to beaches like Mavrospilia and Ellinika or other scenic points around the island, many ending at pristine coastal spots where you can swim or arrange a water taxi back. Be sure to bring solid footwear, plenty of water, and sun protection, especially in summer when shade can be scarce.
Visit the Island’s Museums
Archaeological Museum of Kimolos
Located in Chorio, opposite the Metropolitan Church of Panagia Odigitria, the Archaeological Museum of Kimolos is housed in one of the village’s oldest traditional buildings. Its compact yet thoughtfully curated exhibition traces the island’s history from prehistoric times to the modern era, featuring artifacts from the ancient city of Ellinika and beyond. Highlights include rare ancient sculptures and a striking glass floor revealing a reconstructed burial beneath your feet, offering an engaging glimpse into Kimolos’ deep past.
Folk and Maritime Museum
Located within the Castle of Kimolos, the Folk and Maritime Museum is set in a beautifully restored traditional two-storey house. Its exhibits highlight everyday island life, with handcrafted textiles, household items, and tools from local professions displayed throughout the ground floor. The upper floor recreates a typical Kimolian home with original furniture and personal objects from past centuries. A dedicated nautical corner pays tribute to the island’s seafaring history and its sailors.
Read a Book from the Open Lending Library of Kimolos
The Open Lending Library of Kimolos is a community-driven initiative created by locals to encourage reading and book sharing on an island without a public library. Small open bookcases can be found in various spots around Kimolos, inviting visitors and residents alike to borrow a book or leave one behind. The largest and most central collection is located in Chorio, making it an easy and charming stop while exploring the village. Built on trust and shared love for literature, the library reflects the warm, welcoming spirit of the island.
Shop Local Products
One of the best ways to support Kimolos’ small economy is by shopping at its local businesses and family-run shops. From boutique stores with breezy summer dresses to pottery studios and traditional grocery shops filled with handmade products, each purchase tells a local story. You’re sure to find something special to take home, along with a piece of the island’s character.
Visit the Churches of Kimolos
Exploring the churches of Kimolos offers a quiet glimpse into the island’s spiritual life and traditions. Notable stops include Panagia Odigitria (The Entry of the Most Holy Theotokos), Panagia Konomou and the Holy Church (Ieros Naos), all admired for their Cycladic architecture and peaceful atmosphere. Scattered across the island, these chapels invite visitors to slow down, reflect, and appreciate Kimolos’ deep-rooted faith and history.
Best Beaches in Kimolos
Prassa Beach
Prassa Beach is Kimolos’ most famous beach, loved for its dazzling turquoise waters and soft, pale sand that almost glows in the sun. As of summer 2025, the beach is unorganised, so visitors should bring their own umbrella and essentials for shade. The nearby Prassaki Canteen is the only spot for coffee, snacks, and light drinks, making it a simple but refreshing stop. Calm waters and easy access make Prassa ideal for relaxed swimming, especially on windless days.
Goupa Kara
Goupa Kara is one of Kimolos’ most photographed spots, known for the iconic elephant-shaped rock formation sculpted by sea and wind. The tiny harbour, traditional “sirmata” or caves used by fishermen, and the colorful umbrellas of Chroma Cove Suites create a scene that has become a favorite on Instagram. Due to its growing popularity, it’s best to arrive early in the day to secure a parking spot and a shaded spot to enjoy the area at a relaxed pace.
Rema Beach
Just to the right of the Elephant Rock, Rema Beach features a pebbly shoreline, strikingly clear waters, and welcome natural shade from a few large trees. With easier parking access, it’s a convenient and relaxed choice for a swim. The deep blue waters here, and in neighboring Goupa Kara, are among the clearest and most impressive in the Cyclades, making it an ideal place to spend a slow afternoon by the sea.
Karras Beach
To the left of the Elephant Rock, Karras Beach features a striking white rocky coastline and crystal-clear waters. There is little to no natural shade and no sandy shore, so access to the sea is only via the rocks. It’s best suited for visitors without small children, or for those comfortable navigating rocky entries.
Bonantsa Beach
Located on the south coast of Kimolos, Bonatsa Beach is a favorite for families thanks to its calm, shallow waters and relaxed atmosphere. The beach is partially organised, with Ammos Beach Bar and Theros Beach Bar offering sunbeds, umbrellas, and refreshments. It’s an easygoing spot to spend the day swimming, lounging, and enjoying a coffee right by the sea.
Kalamitsi Beach
Just beyond Bonatsa Beach, Kalamitsi Beach offers a more natural, unorganised setting with large trees that provide generous shade. Its laid-back atmosphere makes it ideal for a relaxed swim away from crowds. The popular Kalamitsi Tavern sits right by the sea, making it easy to pair a long, leisurely lunch with a day of swimming and sunbathing.
Dekas Beach
Dekas Beach is an unorganised and peaceful stretch of coastline, ideal for travelers looking to escape the crowds. With only a few trees providing limited natural shade, it’s best to come prepared with an umbrella, water, and sun protection. The real highlight is sunset, when the sky lights up in dramatic colors over the sea.
Ellinika Beach
Ellinika Beach offers a truly unique swimming experience, with the remains of the island’s ancient city lying just beneath its shallow, clear waters. Bring your goggles to spot submerged ruins dating from the Mycenaean through the Hellenistic periods as you swim.
Mavrospilia Beach
Mavrospilia Beach is a wonderful spot for a late-afternoon swim, when the light softens and the sea takes on deeper shades of blue. The sunset here is especially dreamy, making it a favorite place to linger into the evening. Sunset Paradise, the beach bar nearby, serves cocktails, perfect for ending the day by the sea.
Soufli Beach & Monastiria Beach
Both beaches are located on the northeast side of Kimolos, with Monastiria Beach being the first you’ll reach. Access is possible by car, though the final stretch is a dirt road best suited to a 4×4; otherwise, expect a 15-minute walk down and a longer climb back up on foot. From Monastiria, a scenic 10–15 minute hike leads to Soufi Beach, a truly secluded and idyllic spot. With crystal-clear waters, natural shade from trees, and very few visitors, these beaches feel wonderfully untouched.
Psathi Beach
Psathi Beach is located in the port village of Psathi and, while swimming near a port isn’t always ideal, it’s a convenient spot for a quick dip or some sun before catching your ferry. Lined with tavernas and cafés, it’s also perfect for enjoying a relaxed lunch or coffee right by the water.
Is Kimolos Worth it?
Kimolos is 100% worth it! We made the mistake of overlooking Kimolos as an island during our island-hopping trip and only booked two nights here, assuming we would rather spend the rest of our trip in Milos. Unlike Milos and the other “commercialised” islands, mass tourism has yet to hit Kimolos making, it a true hidden gem of the Cyclades islands. You could spend one to two nights here before hopping on to your next destination, or easily dedicate 4-5 nights and fully immerse yourself in the slow rhythm of the island. The beauty of the island lies in its size; small enough to explore in just a couple of days, leaving the rest of your trip blissfully free from rushing between “must-see” spots. Instead, you can slow down, mingle with locals, return to your favorite places, and truly unwind into a relaxed, effortless vacation.
Where to Eat and Drink in Kimolos
Food
- Prasonisi: Prasonisi is a highly regarded seaside restaurant in Prassa, beloved for its fresh, flavorful Greek and Mediterranean dishes, warm service, and stunning views over the turquoise waters.
- Sardis Restaurant: An authentic seaside taverna offering fresh seafood and traditional homemade Greek dishes at fair, local prices.
- Kalamitsi Tavern: Located on Kalamitsi Beach, this traditional taverna serves fresh seafood and local recipes, paired with warm hospitality and attentive service.
- Meltemi Restaurant: Meltemi elevates local Kimolian cuisine with refined yet authentic flavors, excellent meats and seafood, a thoughtful wine list, and a stunning Aegean view that makes it ideal for a romantic dinner.
- Panorama: A traditional, low-key taverna with a peaceful atmosphere, beautiful views, and genuinely local charm, serving delicious homemade food at very affordable prices.
- Palaia Agora Kimolos – Grill: Your go-to spot for souvlaki and gyros, ideal for a quick, satisfying bite before or after a night out at the cocktail bars of Chorio.
- Geusidéleia: Homemade Greek dishes are prepared fresh daily, with limited seating and very reasonable prices. It’s also a great option for takeaway, whether you’re heading to the beach or setting out on a boat trip.
- Vatsimanēs Grill House: A top-quality grill house located in the heart of Chorio’s main square, known for its welcoming and atmospheric setting.
Sweets
- Stavento – Ice Cream: Serving the island’s best handmade ice cream, with a menu featuring both classic favorites and more unique flavors. Outdoor seating available.
- Chalk Creperie: Small self-service creperie shop serving delicious sweet or savory options.
- To Raventi: A confectionery shop in Psathi offering ice cream, pancakes, pastries, coffee, and more.
Bakeries
- Café Sweet Mug: Alongside coffee and baked treats such as the island’s traditional ladenia (pizza-like bread), you may also find handmade pastries.
- Bakery – Paradossiakos: A traditional bakery in Chorio offering fresh bread, ladenia, and a variety of handmade pastries and pies.
Coffee
- O Kampos: Located in the main square of Chorio, O Kampos is a traditional kafeneio with a relaxed, inviting atmosphere.
- Sinantisi: A quaint café serving high-quality coffee and breakfast in a cozy, restored Cycladic home in Chorio.
- Echniousa Kafeneio: A laid-back café along the waterfront in Psathi. A perfect spot for enjoying a coffee or sweet treat before catching the ferry.
- BarBe: An inviting café serving coffee and brunch in the morning, then cocktails in the evening.
Drinks
- Agora Cocktail Bar: A favorite in Chorio, this laid-back cocktail bar pairs cool music with an eclectic selection of drinks.
- BarBe: An all-day experience with expertly crafted cocktails and tasty snacks.
- Laikon: A relaxed bar in Chorio serving cocktails, beers, and coffee in a friendly atmosphere.
- Brachera: A laid-back bar serving cocktails and beer, with seating inside Chorio’s medieval castle.
- Stavento – Bar: From the creators of Stavento, this spot is perfect for a relaxed cocktail. Located across from BarBe in a charming square in front of the Entry of the Most Holy Theotokos Church.
- Stou Fragouli: From drinks to mezes and pizza, Stou Fragouli is the perfect spot to enjoy a drink and a bite in Chorio’s most picturesque square.
